Proximity sensors are used in a variety of application In industry they detect levels of liquids and presence of products on a production line. Whereas hobbyists/ students might use them to give their machines/robots a sense of the environment around them. So check out this list of 10 best Proximity sensor modules that you can get.
Infrared Barrier Module; Obstacle Avoidance car obstacle avoidance Sensor For Arduino (2.5$)
This sensor is low key and will help you detect the presence of an object. It will not tell you the distance as the output is digital on a single pin.
You can get one here
MB1010 LV-MaxSonar-EZ1 Range Finder(30$)
A good quality Sonar. While most on this list transmit infra-red light to gauge distance, this sensor uses sound to do so. It can operate anywhere between 2.5 to 5V with an analog output.
You can get one here
Vivotech Hc-sr04 Arduino Ultrasonic Distance Measuring Sensor(2.13$)
A rudimentary Sonar sensor for your Arduino.Has an analog output and uses a 40Khz square wave to detect distances.
You can get one here
SensComp 615078LF SMT 6500 Ranging Module(33$)
The SMT 6500 series Ranging Module is an economical sonar ranging module that can drive all SensComp electrostatic ultrasonic sensors. This module, with a simple interface, can measure distances from 6 inches to 35 feet.
You can get one here
SMAKN® Infrared Ir Obstacle Avoidance Detector (13$)
This is an infrared module that can operate on 38Khz. This too has an analog out with 5V operating voltage.Maximum detection distance up to 180cm.
You can get one here
OSEPP IR Proximity Sensor(25$)
The OSEPP IR Proximity Sensor Modules measures distances. It utilizes the Sharp GP2Y0D805Z0F measuring sensor unit that is composed of an integrated combination of the photodiode, infrared emitting diode, and a signal processor. The digital value from the proximity sensor is read out on the I²C bus.
You can get one here
Enjoydeal Adjustable Infrared Proximity Switch Photoelectric Sensor(6$)
An adjustable infrared sensor with a Operating Voltage: 5V DC,Operating Current:10-15mA,Drive Current:100mA
& Detection range: 3 ~ 80cm.
You can get one here
E2K-C25ME1 6-36VDC 25mm Approach Sensor Capacitive Proximity Switch(24$)
This a high-grade industrial proximity sensor. These sensors generate an electrostatic field to detect whether the object is near or not and are extremely accurate.
You can get one here
Sharp Gp2y0a21 Ir Infrared Range Sensor (7$)
Measuring Detecting Distance : 10 to 80 cmThe maximum allowable Angle : > 40 °, The power supply voltage : 4.5 to 5.5 V,The average power consumption : 35 mA, Peak power consumption : about 200 mA, The frequency of updates/cycle : 25 Hz/40 ms, Analog output noise : < 200 mV.
You can get one here
Infrared Proximity Sensor Long Range – Sharp GP2Y0A02YK0F(14$)
One of the most consistent proximity sensors, the only difference between this one and No.2 is that this one can detect distances up to 160cm.
You can get one here